Participant 11

Guiding Questions:

What are your initial thoughts about the concept of Literacy with ICT (LwICT)?
I like it. I don't see it as a real stretch for me personally as a teacher. I like the concept of focusing on the big ideas rather than drilling facts that will soon be outdated.

What implementation barriers for LwICT do you foresee at Senior Years?
Teachers not being accepting because of their personal lack of technology knowledge/skill. Curriculum content and standardized testing make it difficult to deviate from past practices or "fit" this in.

What opportunities does LwICT present for Senior Years?
Providing an opportunity for relevance and engagement for students at the Senior Years level. Accessing the skills of students and embracing technology that is part of his or her everyday life.

What professional learning is required initially to prepare Senior Years teachers to begin to use the LwICT continuum?
Being part of the development/implementation strategy is essential. SY teachers will take ownership if they are valued stakeholders. Teachers may need to see a classroom with true ICT infusion to get their heads around what it might look like for him or her...and to realize that it actually won't be more work for them!

What types of ICT do you currently have in your Senior Years classroom?
I have a SMART board, data projector, and laptop. Wireless internet access is available also.

What types of ICT are available to you in your school, but not in your classroom?
Multiple computer labs, mobile laptop cart, mobile GPS cart, digital camera kit, audio recording equipment.

What subjects and grades do you teach and how do you currently use ICT to enhance student learning?
I teach grade 9 and 10 Science, grade 9 Career Development, and grade 11 and 12 Consumer Math. I use my classroom setup every period to connect our units with current media. The SMART board is an interactive tool for both myself and my students. I also use the computer lab regularly...the laptop cart is my preference, but is has only 10 machines and is sometimes unavailable. I prefer the laptop cart because we can stay in our classroom environment and students have the choice of whether or not they want to access the technology.